Cleaning implement and joint therefor

ABSTRACT

A cleaning implement for removing debris from a surface comprises a handle, a mop head, and a joint connecting the handle and mop head; wherein the joint is adjustable and lockable. The joint allows the angle between the mop head and the handle to be adjusted appropriately and then locked into place. Another embodiment of the present cleaning implement comprises a handle and a mop head, wherein the mop heads comprises one or more gliders to facilitate the ability of the cleaning implement to glide smoothly across the surface being cleaned. Methods of removing debris comprise the step of contacting the surface with a cleaning implement of the present invention.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) to U.S.Provisional Application Serial No. 60/300,765, filed Jun. 25, 2001(Attorney Docket No. 8606P); and U.S. Provisional Application Serial No.60/370,871, filed Apr. 8, 2002 (Attorney Docket No. 8606P2).

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present invention relates to a cleaning implement optionallycomprising a disposable cleaning sheet removably attached thereto forremoving debris, such as human hair, pet hair, dirt, dust, and the like,from soft surfaces, such as carpeting, upholstery, and the like.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] It is often difficult to remove unwanted debris from surfaces,especially from soft surfaces. For example, it is difficult to removepet hair from carpeting. Conventional vacuum cleaners often do not do asufficient job in removing pet hair from carpeting. Even though vacuumcleaners are capable of removing some pet hair from carpeting, it can beinconvenient to repeatedly use a vacuum cleaner because of its weightand power requirements. In addition, pet hair can become entangled inthe roller brush of the vacuum cleaner requiring either cleaning orrepair of the vacuum.

[0004] A number of devices have been disclosed to address the problem ofremoving debris from soft surfaces. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 4,703,538issued to Silverstrone discloses a cleaning tool suited for picking updirt, lint, and the like from rugs, floors, upholstered furniture andother surfaces. The cleaning tool of Silverstrone consists of anelongated handle having a pair of legs extending outwardly to engage acylindrically shaped cleaning element having an external surface made ofVelcro. Discs are fitted between the ends of the cylinder and the legsof the handle to fixedly mount the cylinder to the legs of the handle.The cleaning tool can then be pushed over the surface to be cleaned topick up dirt, lint, and the like. However, this cleaning tool isinconvenient in that the consumer must manually clean the cylindercleaning element after the cleaning element accumulates dirt, lint, andthe like. Since the cylinder is fixedly mounted to the legs of thehandle, the cleaning tool must be manually cleaned every time debrisaccumulates in the Velcro. Furthermore, the cleaning tool ofSilverstrone does not provide the consumer any ability to adjust theangle between the legs of the handle and the handle, to allow a consumerto reach hard-to-reach places. In addition, the cleaning tool ofSilverstrone can be difficult to push and pull across some surfaces,such as carpet, because the cylinder with an exterior surface of Velcrowill tend to catch on carpeted surfaces.

[0005] A tool for removing animal hair from carpeting is disclosed inU.S. Pat. No. 4,042,995 issued to Varon. The tool of Varon contains afield of smooth tapered polyethylene bristles extending down from a headattached to a broom handle. The density of the bristles at the trailingedge is greater than elsewhere and the bristles are arranged in asaw-tooth leading edge pattern. As the tool is pulled through carpeting,the bristles pick up animal hair. The bristles are permanently attachedto the head of the broom handle. As with the cleaning tool ofSilverstrone, the tool of Varon suffers from the problem of having tomanually clean out the bristles of the tool every time the bristlesaccumulate debris. Also, Varon does not provide any ability to adjustthe angle between the head of the broom handle and the broom handle.

[0006] It has thus been desired to create a cleaning implement that canbe conveniently used with removably attachable cleaning sheets that canremove debris, such as pet hair, from surfaces, such as soft surfaces,which can be conveniently disposed by the consumer after use. As aresult, the cleaning sheet does not have to be manually cleaned outafter each use, but instead is easily disposed of after use. It isfurther desired to provide such a cleaning implement that can beadjusted to reach hard-to-reach places and that glides easily acrossdifficult surfaces to clean, such as carpet.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0007] The present invention relates to a cleaning implement forremoving debris from a surface, especially soft surfaces such as carpet,preferably being used with a removably attachable cleaning sheet. Thecleaning implement of the present invention generally comprises a handleand a mop head, wherein the handle and mop head are connected via ajoint. The joint herein is preferably a lockable joint that can beunlocked such that the angle between the mop head and the handle can beadjusted to the desired angle, and then locked into the desiredposition.

[0008] The present invention further relates to a cleaning implementcomprising a mop head connected to a handle, wherein the mop headcomprises one or more gliders to facilitate the movement of the cleaningimplement across relatively high-friction surfaces, such as carpet.

[0009] The present invention further relates to methods of using thecleaning implements of the present invention.

[0010] All documents cited herein are, in relevant part, incorporatedherein by reference; the citation of any document is not to be construedas an admission that it is prior art with respect to the presentinvention.

[0011] It should be understood that every maximum numerical limitationgiven throughout this specification will include every lower numericallimitation, as if such lower numerical limitations were expresslywritten herein. Every minimum numerical limitation given throughout thisspecification will include every higher numerical limitation, as if suchhigher numerical limitations were expressly written herein. Everynumerical range given throughout this specification will include everynarrower numerical range that falls within such broader numerical range,as if such narrower numerical ranges were all expressly written herein.

[0012] All parts, ratios, and percentages herein, in the Specification,Examples, and claims, are by weight and all numerical limits are usedwith the normal degree of accuracy afforded by the art, unless otherwisespecified.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013]FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a cleaning implement of thepresent invention comprising a lockable ratchet-type joint between a mophead and a handle of the cleaning implement.

[0014]FIG. 2 is a bottom view of the mop head of the cleaning implementof FIG. 1.

[0015]FIG. 3 is a side view of the mop head of the cleaning implement ofFIG. 1.

[0016]FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a cleaning implement of thepresent invention comprising a unidirectional, lockable joint between amop head and a handle of the cleaning implement.

[0017]FIG. 5 is an exploded view of the mop head of the cleaningimplement of FIG. 4.

[0018]FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a cleaning implement of thepresent invention comprising a lockable ball-and-socket joint between amop head and a handle of the cleaning implement.

[0019]FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a cleaning implement of thepresent invention comprising a uni-directional, lockable spring-loadedball-bearing joint between a mop head and a handle of the cleaningimplement.

[0020]FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the cleaning implement of FIG. 4with a removable cleaning sheet attached thereto;

[0021]FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the cleaning implement of thepresent invention comprising a female locking member attached thereto;

[0022]FIG. 10 is a cross section view along the A-A axis of FIG. 12 of afemale locking member;

[0023]FIG. 11 is a cross section view along the B-B axis of FIG. 12 of afemale locking member;

[0024]FIG. 12 is a top view of the female locking member of FIG. 9;

[0025]FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a male locking member of thepresent invention;

[0026]FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a mop head and handle assemblywhere the handle is flexibly attached to the mop head;

[0027]FIG. 15 is an exploded view of a floor mop comprising a slideablelocking member according to the present invention;

[0028]FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a floor mop of FIG. 15 in anunlocked position;

[0029]FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a floor mop of FIG. 15 in alocked position;

[0030]FIG. 18 is a side view of a floor mop of FIG. 16;

[0031]FIG. 19 is a side view of a floor mop of FIG. 17 being locked at afixed angle;

[0032]FIG. 20 is a side view of a floor mop of FIG. 17 being locked at afixed angle;

[0033]FIG. 21 is a perspective view of a floor mop comprising anextension being in an unlocked position;

[0034]FIG. 22 is a side view of a floor mop of FIG. 22;

[0035]FIG. 23 is a perspective view of a floor mop comprising aslideable locking member in an unlocked position according to thepresent invention;

[0036]FIG. 24 is a perspective view of the floor mop of FIG. 23comprising a slideable locking member in a locked position;

[0037]FIG. 25 is a perspective view of a floor mop comprising aslideable locking member in a locked position according to the presentinvention;

[0038]FIG. 26 is a perspective view of a slideable collar memberaccording to the present invention;

[0039]FIG. 27 is a perspective view of a floor mop comprising aslideable collar member according to the present invention;

[0040]FIG. 28 is a perspective view of the floor mop of FIG. 27 being ina locked position.

[0041]FIG. 29 is a side view of the floor mop of FIG. 27;

[0042]FIG. 30 is a side view of the floor mop of FIG. 28;

[0043]FIG. 31 is a side view of the floor mop of FIG. 28 being locked ata different angle;

[0044]FIG. 32 is a perspective view of a slideable collar memberaccording to the present invention;

[0045]FIG. 33 is a perspective view of a floor mop comprising aslideable collar member according to the present invention;

[0046]FIG. 34 is a perspective view of the floor mop of FIG. 33 being ina locked position;

[0047]FIG. 35 is a perspective view of a locking member according to thepresent invention;

[0048]FIG. 36 is a side view of a floor mop comprising the lockingmember of FIG. 35 and being in a locked position;

[0049]FIG. 37 is a perspective view of a locking member according to thepresent invention;

[0050]FIG. 38 is a cross section side view of a floor mop comprising thelocking member of FIG. 37 and being in a locked position;

[0051]FIG. 39 is a front view of a mop head comprising gliding membersin an upward position according to the present invention;

[0052]FIG. 40 is a front view of a mop head comprising gliding membersin a downward position according to the present invention;

[0053]FIG. 41 is a perspective view of a mop head of FIG. 40 comprisinggliding members in an upward position according to the presentinvention;

[0054]FIG. 42 is a front view of a mop head comprising gliding membersin a downward position according to the present invention;

[0055]FIG. 43 is a side view of a mop head comprising the glidingmembers of FIG. 42 in an upward position;

[0056]FIG. 44 is a front view of a mop head comprising gliding membersin a downward position according to the present invention;

[0057]FIG. 45 is a front view of a mop head comprising the glidingmembers of FIG. 44 in a downward position;

[0058]FIG. 46 is a perspective view of FIG. 45 comprising the glidingmembers in a downward position;

[0059]FIG. 47 is a perspective view of a gliding member of FIG. 44;

[0060]FIG. 48 is a front cross-section view of a mop head comprisingretractable gliding members in a downward position according to thepresent invention;

[0061]FIG. 49 is a front cross-section view of FIG. 48 comprising thegliding members in an upward position;

[0062]FIG. 50 is a top view of the retractable gliding members mechanismof FIG. 48 where the mop head housing is not shown for clarity;

[0063]FIG. 51 is a left side view of the retractable gliding membersmechanism of FIG. 50;

[0064]FIG. 52 is a perspective view of a floor mop comprising a framemember and a cleaning sheet having protrusions according to the presentinvention;

[0065]FIG. 53 is a side view of the floor mop of FIG. 52 where thehandle is not being shown for clarity;

[0066]FIG. 54 is a side view of the floor mop according to the presentinvention where the frame member is in an upward position;

[0067]FIG. 55 is a perspective view of the mop head of FIG. 52;

[0068]FIG. 56 is a perspective view of the mop head of FIG. 54.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0069] The cleaning implements of the present invention generallycomprise a handle connected to a mop head via a joint. The cleaningimplement can be used to hold a removably attachable cleaning sheet andthe cleaning implement used to remove debris from surfaces.

[0070] I. Removable Cleaning Sheets

[0071] A variety of removable cleaning sheets can be attached to thecleaning implement herein to remove debris from surfaces. The removablecleaning sheets useful in with the present cleaning implements comprisea wide variety of different types of substrates. The substrates can bewoven or nonwoven and can be made of synthetic, natural, or hybridfibers. The substrates can also be a polymeric film. The substrates canbe made from a variety of processes including, but not limited to,hydroentanged, spunbonded, meltblown, carded, and the like. Preferablythe substrates are nonwoven and made of synthetic fibers from ahydroentangling or spunbonded process.

[0072] Suitable removable cleaning sheets for use with the cleaningimplements of the present invention include those described inco-pending U.S. application Ser. Nos. 09/082,349 filed May 20, 1998;09/082,396 filed May 20, 1998; and 09/729,626 filed Nov. 30, 2000. Othersuitable cleaning sheets are described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,525,397 and6,143,393.

[0073] Preferred removable cleaning sheets for use with the cleaningimplements of the present invention include disposable cleaning sheetscomprising a substrate and a plurality of protrusions affixed to thesubstrate. The protrusions can include, for example, hook-shapedprotrusions, slanted fibers, bristles, and the like. Such cleaningsheets are particularly suitable for removing debris, such as hair, fromsoft surfaces, such as upholstery, fabric, carpet, and the like. Thesepreferred cleaning sheets are described in detail in co-pending U.S.application Ser. No. 60/300,700 filed Jun. 25, 2001 by Kacher et al.(P&G Case 8604P), U.S. Application Serial No. 60/300,760 filed Jun. 25,2001 by Kacher et al. (P&G Case 8605P), U.S. Application Serial No.60/370,712 filed Apr. 8, 2002 by Kacher et al. (P&G Case 8604P2), andU.S. Application Serial No. 60/370,715 filed Apr. 8, 2002 by Kacher etal. (P&G Case 8605P2).

[0074] II. Cleaning Implements

[0075] The cleaning implements of the present invention are preferablyused to clean household surfaces, especially soft surface such asupholstery, fabric, carpet, and the like. It is often difficult,however, to remove debris from such soft surfaces with a cleaningimplement, because the cleaning implement tends to “catch” or “snag” onthe soft surface as it moves across the surface. This particularly canbe a problem if one is attaching to the cleaning implement cleaningsheets comprising a substrate and a plurality of protrusions affixed tothe substrate, such as those incorporated by reference hereinbefore.This can actually result in a couple different problems. A first problemresults if the mop head of the cleaning implement is pivotably connectedto the handle of the cleaning implement via a pivotable joint, the mophead will become unstable as the cleaning implement moves across thesurface and the mop head will twist undesirably, making it difficult toremove any debris from the surface. A second problem is that it isdifficult for a consumer to move the cleaning implement across thesurface, because of the relatively high-friction generated between thesurface being cleaned and the cleaning implement.

[0076] To solve these problems, the cleaning implements of the presentinvention can incorporate two distinct aspects, each of which can beincluded in the cleaning implement by itself, or can be incorporated incombination with the other aspect.

[0077] A. Lockable Joint

[0078] A first preferred aspect of the present cleaning implements is anadjustable, lockable joint that connects the mop head to the handle ofthe cleaning implement. The joint is adjustable in the sense that theconsumer can adjust the angle between the mop head and the handle of thecleaning implement to make it more convenient to reach hard-to-reachplaces or to bring the handle to a more comfortable position formopping, in accordance with the height of the consumer. The joint islockable in the sense that once the consumer adjusts the implement tothe desired angle between the mop head and the handle, the consumer canthen maintain the desired angle between the mop head and the handle bylocking the joint connecting the mop head and handle.

[0079] A lockable joint can be important for a couple of reasons. First,a lockable joint will prevent the mop head from twisting or becomingunstable as the cleaning implement is moved across the surface beingcleaned. Second, a lockable joint can provide the consumer withadditional leverage when moving the cleaning implement across thesurface being cleaned. This is particularly important when the cleaningimplement is being used with disposable cleaning sheets comprising asubstrate and a plurality of protrusions affixed to the substrate, asincorporated by reference hereinbefore.

[0080] A variety of different joints can be incorporated in the presentcleaning implements for connecting the mop head to the handle of thecleaning implement. Non-limiting examples of suitable joints for thepresent cleaning implements are illustrated in FIGS. 1, 4, 6-38.

[0081]FIG. 1 illustrates a suitable joint 10 for a cleaning implement 11of the present invention. This joint 10 is both adjustable and lockable.The joint 10 is comprised of a handle portion 12 and a base portion 13.The handle portion 12 is connected to a handle 18 of the cleaningimplement 11. The base portion 13 is connected to a mop head 14 of thecleaning implement 11. The handle portion 12 and the base portion 13each comprise a plurality of engaging teeth 15. Both the handle portion12 and the base portion 13 have holes therethrough to facilitateinsertion of a bolt 16 and a nut 17 to join the handle portion 12 andthe base portion 13 together to form the joint 10. The plurality ofengaging teeth 15 of the handle portion 12 and of the base portion 13engage one another such that the joint 10 does not move when the nut 17and bolt 16 are tightened. When the nut 17 and bolt 16 are tightened,the mop head 14 and the handle 18 of the cleaning implement 11 are at afixed angle relative to one another. The joint 10 is therefore in alocked position. The nut 17 and bolt 16 can then be loosened, such thatthe engaging teeth 15 of the handle portion 12 and the base portion 13no longer engage one another, which allows the joint 10 to rotate 180°about the bolt 16. The user can thus adjust the angle between the mophead 14 and the handle 18. Once the desired angle is obtained, the usercan re-tighten the nut 17 and bolt 16, causing the engaging teeth 15 ofthe handle portion 13 and the base portion 13 to engage each other,thereby locking the joint 10 into the desired position.

[0082]FIGS. 4 and 5 illustrate another suitable joint 40 for a cleaningimplement 41 of the present invention. The joint 40 comprises a baseportion 42 (which can be molded as part of an upper base 50 of a mophead 43), a stem 44, and a threaded plug 45. The stem 44 comprises athreaded portion 46, a first articulating surface 47, and a stem base53. The base portion 42 comprises a slot 48 through which the threadedportion 46 of the stem 44 can extend. The threaded portion 46 of thestem 44 engages the threaded plug 45. The threaded plug 45 connects to ahandle 49 of the cleaning implement 41 and comprises a secondarticulating surface 54. The mop head 43 comprises an upper base 50 anda lower base 51. The lower base 51 has a pair of ribs 52 within whichthe stem base 53 can rotate.

[0083] The joint 40 of FIGS. 4 and 5 can be locked and unlocked bytwisting the handle 49 in a counterclockwise 55 or clockwise 56direction, depending on the threaded portion 46 of the stem 44. As thehandle 49 is being twisted so as to lock the joint 40, the firstarticulating surface 47 and the second articulating surface 54 are drawncloser together. As they are drawn closer together, the firstarticulating surface 47 engages the interior surface of the base portion42, while the second articulating surface 54 engages the outer surfaceof the base portion 42. The friction between the first and secondarticulating surfaces 47, 54 and the base portion 42 becomes greatenough so as to effectively lock the joint 40 into a position. The anglebetween the handle 49 and the mop head 43 is thus locked into position.The joint 40 can then be unlocked by twisting the handle 49 in theopposite counterclockwise 55 or clockwise 56 direction, thereby movingthe first and second articulating surfaces 47, 54 away from each other.The handle 49 is then free to move along the slot 48 of the base portion42. Once the user obtains the desired angle between the handle 49 andthe mop head 43, the user can lock the joint 40 again by twisting thehandle 49.

[0084] In another embodiment represented in FIGS. 9-14, the threadedplug 45 and the handle 49 can be removably attached by using a femalemember 145 attached to the threaded plug 45 and a male member 149attached to the bottom portion of the handle 49. The female member 145comprises a body defined by a substantially cylindrical wall 1145 and isclosed at one end by a bottom portion 2145 as represented in FIG. 10-12.This bottom portion 2145 can be attached to the threaded plug 45. Thefemale member 145 also comprises a keyed plate member 3145 having asubstantially disc shape which is attached to the body of the femalemember 145, preferably to the inner surface of the cylindrical wall 1145such that a hollow space between the bottom portion 2145 and the keyedplate member 3145 is created. The keyed plate member 3145 has a top anda bottom surface and comprises an opening 4145 which can be a slit orcut out through the keyed plate member 3145. This opening preferablystarts from the top surface and ends at the bottom surface of the keyedplate member 3145. The bottom surface of the keyed plate member 3145 canalso comprise a groove or a notch 5145 which is at an angle greater than0 degrees relative to the opening 4145. In a preferred embodiment, thegroove 5145 is substantially perpendicular to the opening 4145.Optionally but preferably, the female member 145 comprises a springmember 6145, preferably located within the cylindrical body of thefemale member 145. As previously discussed, the male member 149 ispreferably attached to the bottom portion of the handle 49 asrepresented in FIG. 13. The male member 149 comprises a shaft 1149 and apin 2149 which can be perpendicularly attached to the shaft 1149. Theshaft 1149 and pin 2149 of the male member 149 can be inserted in thefemale member 145 through the opening 4145 and, as a result, compressthe spring member 6145. When the pin 2149 reaches the hollow spacelocated between the bottom portion 2145 and the keyed plate member 3145,the shaft 1149 can be rotated which results in the pin 2149 being alsorotated within this hollow space. Once the pin 2149 reaches the groove5145, the biasing action of the spring member 6145 pushes the pin 2149within the groove 5145 preventing further rotation of the shaft 1149 andpin 2149 within the female member 145. When the pin 2149 is locatedwithin the groove 5145, it is possible to lock and unlock the joint 40simply by twisting the handle and thus, adjust the angle of the handlerelative to the mop head 43. In order to detach the male member 149 fromthe female member 145, a user can first simply push on the handle 49 inorder to remove the pin 2149 from the groove 5145, and then rotate thehandle 49 until the pin 2149 coincide with the opening 4145. The shaft1149 and pin 2149 can then be extracted from the female member 145. Oneskilled in the art will understand that the female member 145 can beattached to the lower portion of the handle 49 and the male member 149can be attached to the threaded plug 45 and still provide the samebenefits. In addition, the spring member 6145 can be part of the malemember 149 rather than the female member 145 and still provide the samebenefits. The female and male members 145, 149 can be made of anysuitable material capable of sustaining and transferring the forceapplied to the handle by the user without rupturing. Preferred examplesof suitable materials for the female and male members can be metals,alloys, plastics, wood or any combination thereof.

[0085] In a preferred embodiment, the threaded plug 45 can be flexiblyattached to the handle 49 with a portion of flexible material 56 asrepresented in FIG. 14. In one embodiment, this portion of flexiblematerial 56 has a substantially cylindrical shape defined by a wall 156forming an inner volume 256. It might be beneficial that the portion offlexible material 56 have a bellow shape. In a preferred embodiment, thethreaded plug 45 is flexibly attached to the handle 49 with the portionof flexible material 56 such that at least a portion of the femalemember 145 and a portion of the male member 149 are located within innervolume 256 of the portion of flexible material 56. Among other benefits,the portion of flexible material allows the handle to be rotated a full360° in the x-y plane allowing the mop head 43 to swivel due to theelastic properties of the flexible material and as such to be used witha cleaning sheet or a cleaning pad. Non-limiting examples of suitablecleaning sheets and/or cleaning pads can be SWIFFER® Cleaning sheet andSWIFFER WET® sold by the Procter and Gamble Company and described indetail in copending U.S. application Ser. No. 09/082,349 filed May 20,1998 by Fereshthekhou et al and U.S. application Ser. No. 09/671,718filed Sep. 27, 2000 by Sherry et al. One skilled in the art willunderstand that the described floor mops can be used with any othertypes of cleaning sheets or cleaning pads and still provide the samebenefits. In addition, the flexibility and elasticity of the portion offlexible material 56 renders possible to insert the male member 149 intothe female member 145 very easily.

[0086] In another embodiment of the invention, the female member 145 orthe male member 149 can be attached to a mop head at a predeterminedfixed angle without requiring an adjustable and lockable joint 40 suchas the one which was previously described. In this embodiment, a usercan preferably use the implement to clean a hard surface when the malemember is not attached to the female member. In addition, a user can usethis floor mop with a cleaning sheet comprising protrusions by attachingthe male member 149 to the female member 145 in order to obtain a“locked” mop head/handle combination.

[0087]FIG. 6 illustrates another suitable joint 68 for a cleaningimplement 69 of the present invention. The joint 68 is a ball-and-socketjoint which can be adjusted 360° when in an unlocked position. The joint68 comprises a handle portion 62 and a base portion 63. The handleportion 62 is connected to a handle 64 and the base portion 63 isconnected to a mop head 65 of the cleaning implement 69. The handleportion 62 comprises a socket, through which is extended a threadedportion. The base portion 63 comprises a ball, which receives thethreaded portion extending through the socket of the handle portion 62.The joint 68 can be locked by twisting the handle 64 counterclockwise 66or clockwise 67, depending upon the configuration of the joint 68. Asthe handle 64 is twisted, the threaded portion extending through thesocket of the handle portion 62 engages the ball of the base portion 63,thereby pulling the ball and socket closer together. By continuing totwist the handle 64, the friction between the ball and socket becomesgreat enough to effectively lock the joint 68 into position. When in alocked position, the angle between the mop head 65 and handle 64 isfixed. The handle 64 can then be twisted in the oppositecounterclockwise 66 or clockwise 67 direction to unlock the joint 68,allowing the handle 64 to rotate 360° relative about the joint 68relative to the mop head 65. Once the desired angle between the mop head65 and the handle 64 is obtained, the user can again twist the handle 64in the appropriate counterclockwise 66 or clockwise 67 direction to lockthe joint 68 into the desired position.

[0088]FIG. 7 illustrates another suitable joint 70 for a cleaningimplement 71 of the present invention. The joint 70 comprises a handleportion 72 and a base portion 73. The handle portion 72 is connected toa handle 74 of the cleaning implement 71. The base portion 73 isconnected to a mop head 75 of the cleaning implement 71. The handleportion 72 and the base portion 73 have holes therethrough to facilitatea bolt 76 for holding together the handle portion 72 and the baseportion 73. The handle portion 72 comprises a spring-loaded ball and thebase portion 73 comprises a plurality of recesses 77. The spring-loadedball of the handle portion 72 can engage a recess 77 of the base portion73, thereby locking the joint 70 into the desired position. The user canapply force to the handle 74 to dislodge the spring-loaded ball from therecess 77 and move the spring-loaded ball to the next adjacent recess 77of the base portion 73, thereby adjusting the angle between the mop head75 and the handle 74 of the cleaning implement 71.

[0089]FIG. 15 through 34 illustrate other types of suitable adjustableand lockable joints for a cleaning implement of the present invention.

[0090] In one embodiment, represented in FIG. 15-22, the floor mopcomprises a mop head 114, a handle portion 118 pivotally connected tothe mop head 114 by a universal joint 130 and a slideable locking member140 located within the handle portion 118. The universal joint 130 ofthis embodiment has two rotational axis which can be located on the sameplane. An example of a suitable universal joint can have a substantiallycross shape. The slideable locking member 140 can be a longitudinal pole141 having an arm member 142 perpendicularly attached to thelongitudinal pole 141 as represented in FIG. 15. One skilled in the artwill understand that the longitudinal pole 141 can have any geometricalshape or form such as circular, triangular or rectangular. It can bepreferred to have the slideable locking member 140 made of a relativelystiff or rigid material such that the it does not deform or bend whichwould prevent it from being slideably movable through the universaljoint 130. Non-limiting examples of suitable material can be metals,alloys, plastics, wood or any combination thereof. A slit 1118 on theside of the handle portion 118 allows the slideable locking member 140to be moved from a first position to a second position by pushing orpulling the arm member 142. As previously discussed, it might bebeneficial to adjust the angle of the handle portion 118 relative to themop head 118 and lock it in place when the cleaning implement is usedwith a cleaning sheet having protrusions. In order to achieve thisresult, the mop head 114 comprises at least 1, preferably between 1 and10, more preferably between 2 and 6 holes, recesses, notches orprojections 1114 which can be engaged by the slideable locking member140. The slideable locking member can be pushed through a centralopening 131 of the universal joint 130 in order to engage one of thehole or projection 1114 on the mop head 114. When the slideable lockingmember is in a first position, as represented in FIGS. 16, 18, 21-23,the handle portion 118 can be rotated a full 360° in the x-y planeallowing the mop head 114 to swivel and as such can be used with acleaning sheet or a cleaning pad. When the slideable locking member 140is in the second position, i.e. is pushed through the central opening131 of the universal joint 130 and engages a recess 1114 on the mop head114 as represented in FIGS. 17, 19, 20 and 24, the universal joint islocked and the angle between the handle portion 118 and the mop head 114is fixed. One skilled in the art will understand that the closer a holeor projection 1114 is located to the leading or trailing edge of the mophead 114, the smaller is the angle α between the handle portion 118 andthe mop head 114, as shown in FIGS. 19 and20. It can be beneficial thatthe holes or recesses 1114 be located on the mop head such that theangle α is comprised between about 0 and about 90 degrees, preferablybetween about 20 and about 70 degrees, more preferably between about 35and about 55 degrees. One skilled in the art will understand that thelength of the longitudinal pole 141 can be substantially equal to orsmaller than the length of the entire handle of the cleaning implement.In a preferred embodiment, the length of the pole member 141 and theslit 1118 are such that the pole member can engage any of the holes orprojections 1114 on the mop head. In one embodiment, these holes orprojections 1114 can all be located on the same side of the mop head114. In another embodiment, these holes or projections 1114 can belocated on both sides of the mop head 114 as represented in FIG. 16-18.Considering that the width of a existing mop head is typically comprisedbetween about 100 mm and about 200 mm, one skilled in the art willunderstand that the angle α can be limited and will be greater than 0degrees, i.e. the angle at which the handle portion can be parallel tothe plane of the mop head 114. In order to solve this problem, anextension 150, comprising further holes or projections and which isschematically represented in FIG. 21 and 22, can be added to the mophead. With this extension 114, it becomes possible adjust and lock thehandle at an even smaller angle which can tend to 0 degrees. Optionally,in order to keep the slideable locking member in place in either thefirst or second position, at least one slit 2118 substantiallyperpendicular to the slit 1118 can be added to the handle portion 118 asshown in FIGS. 16 and 17. In another embodiment, the slideable lockingmechanism can be spring loaded. In yet another embodiment, the hole 1114on the mop head 114 can be slightly smaller than the longitudinal pole141 such that the pole 141 can be forced fit into a recess or hole 1114.The projections 1114 can engage and lock a hollow longitudinal polemember 1141. The previously described adjustable and lockable joint canalso be used with a universal joint comprising 2 rotational axis whichare not in the same plane and the sliding member 140 can be a solid bar.This embodiment is represented in FIGS. 23 and 24.

[0091] In another embodiment represented in FIG. 25, the floor mopcomprises a mop head 114 flexibly attached to a handle portion 118 and aslideable locking member 140 located within the handle portion 118 aspreviously described. The mop head 114 comprises at least 1, preferablybetween 1 and 10, more preferably between 2 and 6 projections or holes,recesses, notches 1114 which can engage or be engaged by the slideablelocking member 140. The mop head 114 can be flexibly attached to thelower portion of the handle 149 with a portion of flexible material 156such that the portion of flexible material 156 covers at least partiallythe projections or holes 1114. The slideable locking member can be movedwithin the handle portion 118 and the portion of flexible material 156in order to engage a hole or be engaged by a projection 1114 on the mophead 114. When the slideable locking member is in a first position, thehandle 149 can be rotated a full 360° in the x-y plane allowing the mophead 114 to swivel and as such can be used with a cleaning sheet or acleaning pad. When the slideable locking member 140 is in the secondposition, as represented in FIG. 25 i.e. is pushed within the handleportion 118 and the portion of flexible material 156 and engages a holeor is engaged by a projection 1114 on the mop head 114, the handle 149is locked and the angle between the handle 149 and the mop head 114 isfixed which, in turn, allows the user to clean a soft surface with acleaning sheet comprising protrusions. As previously discussed, theangle of the handle 149 relative to the mop head 114 can be adjusteddepending on which hole or projection 1114 the slideable locking member140 is temporarily attached. In a preferred embodiment, the slideablelocking member can be forced fit in a hole or projection 1114 in orderto maintain the handle 149 fixedly attached to the mop head 114 duringthe cleaning of a soft surface.

[0092]FIG. 26 through 34 illustrate another suitable adjustable andlockable joint for a cleaning implement of the present invention.

[0093] In one embodiment, represented in FIG. 27, the floor mopcomprises a mop head 214, a handle portion 218 pivotally connected tothe mop head 214 by a universal joint 230 and a slideable locking member240 which is slideably movable along the outer surface of the handleportion 218. The universal joint 230 of this embodiment has tworotational axis 231 and 232 which can be located in two different planesand are substantially perpendicular. In this embodiment, the universaljoint 230 is rotationally attached to the mop head 214 along a firstrotational axis 231 and is attached to the handle portion 218 along asecond rotational axis 232. The slideable locking member 240 comprises acollar member 241 and a pole member 242. The collar member 241 has asubstantial cylindrical shape and has an inner diameter slightly greaterthan the outer diameter of the handle portion 218 in order to allow thecollar member 241 to be slideably movable along the handle portion 218.One skilled in the art will understand that the collar member 241 canhave any geometrical shape or form such as circular, triangular orrectangular but will preferably have substantially the same shape thanthe handle portion 218. The pole member 242 can be attached to thecollar member at any suitable location but preferably to the front lowerportion of the collar member 241. One skilled in the art will understandthat the collar and pole members can be two separate pieces attachedtogether or that they can be molded to form one single element and thatthey can be made of any type of material but preferably of a relativelystiff or rigid material as previously described. In this embodiment, themop head 214 comprises holes, recesses, notches or projections aspreviously described. The slideable locking member 240 can be slidedalong the handle portion from a first position where the handle portion218 can rotate a full 360° in the x-y plane allowing the mop head 214 toswivel, as represented in FIGS. 27 and 29, to a second position wherethe joint is locked at a fixed angle, as represented in FIG. 28 and30-31. When the slideable locking member 240 is slideably moved to thesecond position, at least a portion of the collar member 241 covers atleast one of the rotational axis of the universal joint 230, preferablythe second rotational axis 232 as to prevent rotation of the handleportion 218 about this axis. In addition, when the slideable lockingmember 240 is in the second position, the pole member 242 can engage ahole, recess or notch on the mop head therefore preventing rotation ofthe handle portion 218 about the first rotational axis 231 of theuniversal joint 230. The slideable locking mechanism 240 can be lockedin place with any of the mechanism previously described.

[0094] In another embodiment represented in FIGS. 32-34, the universaljoint 230 comprises a U-shapped portion 231 rotationally attached to themop head 214 along a first rotational axis 231 and rotationally attachedto a handle portion 218 along a second rotational axis 232. The firstand second rotational axis are in different planes and are substantiallyperpendicular. In this embodiment, it can be beneficial that the collarmember 241 comprises a pair of slits or notches 243 and 244 that allowthe collar member 241 to cover at least partially the second rotationalaxis 232 of the universal joint 230.

[0095] All the previously disclosed lockable and/or adjustable jointsare “integrated” in a floor mop. As a result, consumers who already owna floor mop may have to purchase a new mop having an adjustable and/orlockable joint in order to optimize the use of a cleaning sheetcomprising protrusions. In order to avoid the inconvenience of having topurchase a new mop, one aspect of the invention is directed to aseparate locking element for locking the universal joint and the handleof a floor mop at a fixed angle.

[0096]FIGS. 35 through 38 illustrate a suitable locking member forlocking the universal joint and the handle of a floor mop at a fixedangle.

[0097] In one embodiment represented in FIGS. 35 and 36, the lockingmember 80 can be used to lock at a fixed angle the universal joint of afloor mop 90. The floor mop 90 comprises a mop head 190 rotationallyattached to a handle 290 with a universal joint 390. In one embodiment,the universal joint 390 can have a substantially cross shape. Theuniversal joint 390 can have a first and a second rotational axis whichcan be on the same plane. In order to allow a full 360° rotation of thehandle 290 in the x-y plane, it can be preferred that the two rotationalaxis of the universal joint 390 be perpendicular. The mop head 190comprises two ear members 1190 and 2190 which are attached to the centerportion of the top surface of the mop head 190 creating a space inbetween. The two ear members 1190, 2190 can be rotationally attached tothe universal joint 290 along its first rotational axis. The handle 290comprises a lower portion having two ear members 1290 and 2290 which canhave a substantially U shape. The two ear members 1290, 2290 can berotationally attached to the universal joint 290 along its secondrotational axis. In one embodiment, the locking member 80 comprises asupport plate 180 which can be substantially flat and has an inner side,an outer side, a top and a bottom edge. By inner side of the supportplate 180, it is meant the side which is facing the ear members 1190,2190 and the universal joint 390 when the universal joint 390 is lockedby the locking member 80. By bottom edge, it is meant the edge of thesupport plate 180 which is the closest to the top surface of the mophead 190 when the universal joint 390 is locked by the locking member80. A first locking plate 280, for preventing rotation of the handle 290about the first rotational axis of the universal joint 390, can beattached to the inner side of the support plate 180. In one embodiment,the first locking plate 280 can be attached to the support plate 180such that the angle between the first locking plate 280 and the supportplate 280 is between about 0 and about 90 degrees, preferably betweenabout 20 and about 70 degrees, more preferably between about 35 andabout 55 degrees. The width of the first locking plate 280 is such thata user can insert the first locking plate 280 between the first andsecond ear members 1190 and 2190 of the mop head 190. In a preferredembodiment, the width of the first locking plate 280 is slightly greaterthan the inner distance between the first and second ear members 1190,2190 such that the first locking plate 280 can be force fit and/or keptin place between the first and second ear members 1190, 2190. Inaddition, the first locking plate 280 can be attached to the supportplate 180 such that a user can insert the first locking plate 280underneath the universal joint 390. In a preferred embodiment, the firstlocking plate 280 is attached to the support plate 180 such that it issubstantially adjacent to the tip of the ear member 1290 of the lowerportion of the handle 290 when a user inserts the first locking plate280 between the ear members 1190 and 2190. In this embodiment, thelength of the first locking plate 280 can be such that the first lockingplate 280 extends beyond the first rotational axis of the universaljoint 390 when a user inserts the first locking plate 280 between theear members 1190 and 2190. In a preferred embodiment, the length of thefirst locking plate 280 can be substantially equal to the outer distancebetween the first and second ear members 1290 and 2290 of the handle290. In an even preferred embodiment, the first locking plate 280 isattached to the support plate 180 such that the longitudinal axis of thehandle 290 is substantially perpendicular to the first locking platewhen the first locking plate is inserted between the first and secondear members 1190, 2190 of the mop head 190. One skilled in the art willunderstand that when the first locking plate 280 is inserted aspreviously described, rotation of the handle 290 about the firstrotational axis of the universal joint 390 is limited and preferablyprevented since each ear members 1290, 2290 of the handle 290 might comein contact with the first locking plate 280. As a result, the anglebetween the handle 290 and the mop head 190 is fixed and this angle issubstantially equal to the angle between the first locking plate 280 andthe support plate 180.

[0098] In another embodiment, the locking member 80 can comprise asecond and a third locking plate 380, 480 for preventing rotation of thehandle 290 about the second rotational axis of the universal joint 390.In this embodiment, the second and third locking plate can be attachedto the support plate 180 defining a space in between, such that thehandle 290 can be located between the second and third locking plate380, 480 when the handle is locked by the locking member 80. In oneembodiment, it can be preferred to attach the second and third lockingplate adjacent the top edge of the support plate 180. The distancebetween the second and third locking plate 380, 480 can be substantiallyequal to, but preferably slightly smaller than, the width of the earmembers 1290 and 2290 of the handle 290. In another embodiment, thedistance between the second and third locking plate 380, 480 can besubstantially equal to, but preferably slightly smaller than, the widthor diameter of the handle 290. In one embodiment, the second and thirdlocking plates 380, 480 are attached to the support plate 180 such thatthe angle between the locking plates 380, 480 and the support plate 180is comprised between about 20 and about 160 degrees, preferably betweenabout 50 and about 120 degrees and more preferably between a bout 75 and105 degrees. When a user insert the first locking plate 280 between theear members 1190, 2190 of the mop head and the first rotational axis ofthe universal joint 390 is locked, the handle 290 is “sandwiched”between the second and third locking plates 380, 480. As a result,rotation of the handle 290 about the second rotational axis of theuniversal joint 390 is prevented.

[0099] In another embodiment of the invention represented in FIGS. 37and 38, a floor mop can have a universal joint 395 which can have afirst and a second rotational axis which are in different planes. Aspreviously discussed, it might be preferred that the first and secondrotational axis of the universal joint be perpendicular. In thisembodiment, the universal joint 395 can have a substantially U or Vshape. The U or V shape member has a first and a second leg member 1385,2385 and a top 3385. A mop head 195 can be rotationally attached to eachleg 1385 and 2385 along a first rotational axis. A handle 295 can berotationally attached to the top 3385 of the U or V shape universaljoint 385 along a second rotational axis. A locking member 85 can beused to lock at a fixed angle the U or V shape universal joint. In oneembodiment, the locking member 85 comprises a support plate 185 whichcan have a substantially rectangular shape and having a notch 1185 onone of its side. In one embodiment, the width of this notch can besubstantially equal, but preferably slightly smaller than the diameterof the handle 295. The locking member 85 also comprises a first and asecond leg 285, 385 attached in a downward direction to one edge of thesupport plate 185, preferably the edge which comprises the notch 1185such that the first and second leg 285, 385 are located on each side ofthe notch 1185 of the support plate 185. The locking member 85 alsocomprises at least a third leg 485 attached in a downward direction tothe opposite edge such that it is facing the first and second legs 285and 385 of the locking member 85. In one embodiment, the first andsecond legs 285, 385 are substantially parallel to the third leg 485. Ina preferred embodiment, the length of the first and second legs 285, 385is greater than the length of the third leg 485 such that when thebottom portion of the first, second and third legs are in contact with atop surface of the mop head 195, the angle between any of the legs 285,385 and/or 485 is between about 0 and about 90 degrees, preferablybetween about 20 and about 70 degrees, more preferably between about 35and about 55 degrees. In order to lock the handle 295 at a fixed anglerelative to the mop head 195, a user can simply insert the handle 295through the notch 1185 such that the handle is located within thesupport plate 185 and then slide the whole locking member 85 along thehandle 195 until each leg 285, 385 and 485 is in contact with the topsurface of the mop head, as shown in FIG. 38. When the locking member 85is attached to the mop head as previously described, the first, secondand third legs 285, 385 and 485 prevent rotation of the handle 295 aboutthe first rotational axis of the universal joint 395 and the supportplate 185 prevents rotation of the handle 295 about the secondrotational axis of the universal joint 395

[0100] The previously described locking members 80 and 85 can be made ofany suitable material. Non-limiting examples of suitable materials canbe wood, metal, plastic or any combinations thereof.

[0101] A locking member 80 and/or 85 can be sold individually or as akit comprising at least one locking member 80 or 85 and at least onecleaning sheet comprising a substrate having protrusions affixed to thesubstrate. Another kit could, in addition, comprise a cleaning implementhaving an universal joint such as any of the joints previouslydescribed. Another possible kit can comprise at least one locking member80 and/or 85 and at least one, but preferably two gliders which can beremovably attachable to the mop head of a floor mop. In anotherembodiment, at least one locking member 80 and/or 85 can be part of akit comprising at least one cleaning sheet comprising a substrate havingprotrusion affixed to the substrate and at least one but preferably twogliders also affixed to the substrate.

[0102] It is envisioned that other types of joints can provide theadjustable and lockable features desired herein.

[0103] B. Gliders

[0104] A second preferred aspect of the present cleaning implements isthe incorporation of gliders, preferably on the bottom surface of themop head of the cleaning implement. Gliders are structures incorporatedin the present cleaning implement that facilitate the movement of thecleaning implement across the surface being cleaned. Gliders can takeany of a variety of forms, including tapes, coatings, molded pieces, andthe like. Gliders in the form of tapes can be adhered directly to thebottom surface of a mop head of the present cleaning implement. Gliderscan also be directly molded into the bottom surface of a mop head.Gliders can further encompass molded pieces that can be attached to themop head.

[0105] Gliders are especially important when the cleaning implement isbeing used with a removable cleaning sheet comprising a substrate and aplurality of protrusions affixed to the substrate, as incorporated byreference hereinbefore. The protrusions of the cleaning sheet, whileeffective in removing debris from a surface, can pose a problem withrespect to the ability of the cleaning implement to smoothly glideacross the surface being cleaned, especially soft surfaces such ascarpet, upholstery, fabric, and the like. The gliders can significantlyenhance the ability of the cleaning implement to smoothly glide acrossthe surface being cleaned.

[0106] Gliders can be made of any number of materials, preferablymaterials having a relatively low coefficient of friction. Suitablematerials for making gliders of the present invention include acetals(including polyacetals), polypropylene, polyethylene, ABS, Teflon, andmixtures thereof. Preferred materials for making gliders include acetalsand polyacetals. Acetals are derivatives of formaldehyde, and includehomopolymers and co-polymers. Acetals are strong and rigid (but notbrittle) and have good moisture, heat and chemical resistance. Acetalshave a low surface friction in contrast with many other materials andtheir abrasion is low. The most outstanding properties of polyacetalsare high tensile strength, stiffness, resilience, good recovery fromdeformation under load and toughness under repeated impact. Acetals arethus a preferred material for making gliders. Acetals are commericiallyavailable from DuPont under the trade name DELRIN® and from Celaneseunder the trade name CELCON®.

[0107] The present cleaning implement will preferably have at least oneglider, but preferably at least two gliders, which are preferablypositioned near each of the side edges of the bottom surface of the mophead of the present cleaning implement. In another embodiment, at leastone but preferably two gliders can be positioned away from the sideedges of the bottom surface of the mop head, preferably the distancebetween the gliders and the side edges is at least 5 mm, more preferablyat least 10 mm and most preferably at least 15 mm. In this embodiment,the floor mop might be used with a cleaning sheet comprising a substratewith protrusions and a corresponding number of notches or cut out forallowing the gliders to extend through these. In this embodiment itmight beneficial that the substrate of the cleaning sheet compriseprotrusions in the portion of the substrate located between the sideedge of the bottom surface of the mop head and the gliders. Among otherbenefits, such a cleaning sheet can be used for edge and/or comercleaning of a soft surface.

[0108]FIG. 2 is a bottom view of the mop head 14 of the cleaningimplement 11 of FIG. 1. FIG. 2 shows that the mop head 14 has twogliders 20 attached thereto. The gliders 20 are positioned at near eachof the side edges of the bottom surface of the mop head 14. In thisembodiment, the gliders 20 are strips of tape, preferably made ofTeflon, adhered to the bottom surface of the mop head 14.

[0109]FIG. 3 is a side view of the mop head 14 of the cleaning implement11 of FIG. 1. FIG. 3 shows that the gliders 20 are relatively thinstrips of tape, preferably made of Teflon, and have a slightly curvedprofile. When a removable cleaning sheet is attached to the cleaningimplement 11, the cleaning sheet is generally positioned between thepair of gliders 20. The gliders thus provide some height between thebottom surface of the glider and the bottom surface of the mop head 14,such that the cleaning sheet is not contacted to the surface with asgreat of force, if the gliders 20 were not present. This facilitates thecleaning implement 11 gliding smoothly across the surface being cleaned,while still allowing the cleaning sheet to remove debris from thesurface. In one embodiment, the mop head can comprise a substantiallycompressible and/or conformable pad. During use of a floor mop having acompressible and/or conformable pad, the pad will tend to be compressed.As a result, the gliders come in contact with the soft surface. In thisembodiment, the gliders can be attached to the mop head such that theheight of the gliders relative to the bottom surface of the mop head isnegative, i.e. the bottom surface of the gliders is further away fromthe soft surface than the bottom surface of the pad of the mop head. Inone embodiment of the invention, the height of the gliders is comprisedbetween about −10 mm and about 15 mm, preferably between about 3 and 9mm and more preferably between about 5 to 7 mm. By height 120 of thegliders it is meant the distance between the bottom surface of the mophead and bottom surface of the gliders as shown in FIG. 40.. In oneembodiment, a cleaning implement comprising a pair of gliders attachedto the bottom surface of the mop head is used with a disposable cleaningsheet comprising protrusions such as the one described in detail incopending U.S. Application Serial No. 60/300,700 filed Jun. 25, 2001 byKacher et al. (P&G Case 8604P), U.S. Application Serial No. 60/300,760filed Jun. 25, 2001 by Kacher et al. (P&G Case 8605P), U.S. ApplicationSerial No. 60/370,712 filed Apr. 8, 2002 by Kacher et al. (P&G Case8604P2), and U.S. Application Serial No. 60/370,715 filed Apr. 8, 2002by Kacher et al. (P&G Case 8605P2). In this embodiment, it has beenobserved that when such a cleaning sheet is attached to the mop head andit is moved across a soft surface, it might be beneficial that at leastsome of the protrusions of the cleaning sheet, engage or “penetrate” thesoft surface. It can be preferred that the engagement ends of theprotrusions penetrate into the surface from about 0 to about 4 mm,preferably from about 0 to about 3 mm, even more preferably more about0.1 to about 2 mm.

[0110] Examples of gliders are further shown in FIGS. 4 and 5. Thecleaning implement 41 has a pair of gliders 57. The gliders 57 can beadhered to the bottom surface of the mop head 43, can be molded into themop head 43, can be free-floating with respect to the mop head 43, orthe like. FIG. 5 shows spring-loaded gliders 57 that are free-floatingwith respect to the mop head 43. The spring-loaded gliders 57 aremounted on glider bases 58 through which springs 59 are extended to thegliders 57. The springs 59 extend through the lower base 51 to the upperbase 50 of the mop head 43. These gliders 57 are thus capable of rockingback-and-forth as the cleaning implement 41 is moved back-and-forthacross the surface being cleaned. This rocking motion of the gliders 57helps to facilitate the use of a cleaning sheet removably attached tothe cleaning implement. Due to the spring-loaded gliders the height ofthe gliders can vary relative to the bottom surface of the mop head.This varying height can be viewed as a gap between the resting positionof the glider and the bottom surface or pad of the mop head. In oneembodiment, this gap is comprised between about −1.0 cm and about +2.0cm, preferably between about 0 cm and about +1.0 cm.

[0111]FIG. 8 shows a cleaning implement 80 comprising gliders 81 havinga removable cleaning sheet 82 affixed thereto. The cleaning sheet 82 ispositioned between the pair of gliders 81.

[0112]FIG. 39 through 56 illustrate another mop head comprising glidersfor a cleaning implement of the present invention.

[0113] In one embodiment, represented in FIGS. 39-41, the floor mopcomprises a mop head 314 having an top and a bottom surface, a left anda right side where a first and a second gliding member 360 and 365 arerotationally attached. In one embodiment, the first and second glidingmembers are rotationally attached to respectively the left and rightside of the mop head 314 along the rotational axis. In this embodiment,each gliding member comprises a body portion 1360 having an uppersurface and a lower surface and at least one glider 2360 attached to thelower surface of the body portion 1360. One skilled in the art willunderstand that alternatively, the glider(s) can be attached to theupper surface of the body portion 1360 and provide the same benefits.Each gliding member 360 and 365 can be rotationally moved from a firstto a second position. When a gliding member 360 or 365 is in the firstposition, as represented in FIG. 40, the at least one glider 2360 islocated adjacent the bottom surface of the mop head 314. As a result,the cleaning implement can be used as previously described with acleaning sheet having protrusions to clean soft surfaces. When a glidingmember 360 or 365 is in the second position, as represented in FIG. 39,the at least one glider is located adjacent the top surface of the mophead 314 which allows the cleaning implement to be used with a cleaningsheet or a cleaning pad in order to clean hard surfaces. It can bepreferred that when the gliding member 360 or 365 is in the secondposition, the upper surface of the body portion 1360,which is now facingthe surface to be cleaned, has the same height and/or curvature than thebottom surface of the mop head 314 such that they coincide and the mophead has a substantially smooth and/or continuous bottom surface. In oneembodiment, the gliding members 360 and 365 can be rotated or flippedfrom the first to the second position and vice versa, independently. Auser can simply rotate these gliding members depending on the kind ofcleaning sheet she wants to use and the kind of surface she wants toclean. It can be preferred to allow the user to rotate both glidingmembers 360 and 365 by simply actuating one of these gliding members.This can be done very simply by mechanically connecting each glidingmembers 360 and 365 with a pole 368 as represented in FIG. 41. This pole368 assures that the rotation of one of the gliding member 360 or 365will result in the rotation of the other gliding member. Optionally, themop head 314 can comprise at least one but preferably two retainingmembers in order to retain the pole 368 in place when the cleaningimplement is being used. In order to rotate the gliding members 360 and365, a user needs to overcome the “retaining force” which assures thatthe pole 368 and the gliding members are kept in place. These retainingmembers 1314 can be a notch, a groove, a clip or any equivalent known inthe art. A retaining member 1314 can adjacent at least one of the edgesof the mop head. In a preferred embodiment, the mop head 314 comprisesone retaining member on its leading edge and one retaining member on itstrailing edge. In one embodiment of the invention, the pole 368 isattached at both ends to the first and second gliding members 360 and365 and is located substantially adjacent the rotational axis of thefirst and second gliding members as represented in FIGS. 39-40. In thisembodiment, the pole 368 is located within the mop head 314. Among otherbenefits, a pole 368 located within the mop head prevents a user toinadvertently damage the pole 368 but also prevents the user to have hishand or fingers pinched by the pole 368 during the rotation of thegliding members.

[0114] In another embodiment, the first and second gliding members 360,365 can be removably attached to the mop head 314, preferably to theleft and right side of the mop head. In this embodiment, a user can verysimply attach each gliding member to left and right side of the mop headsuch that the gliders 2360 and 2365 are located substantially adjacentthe bottom surface of the mop head 314. A user can then use the floormop with a cleaning sheet comprising protrusions to clean a hardsurface. If desired, a user can remove each gliding members 360, 365from the mop head in order to rotate them and reattach each glidingmembers such that the gliders 2360 and 2365 are located adjacent the topsurface of the mop head 314. A user can then use the floor mop to cleana hard surface with a cleaning sheet or a cleaning pad. There might bemultiple ways to removably attach each gliding member 360, 365 to theleft and right side of the mop head. For example, the gliding memberscan be clipped to the mop head, forced fit on the mop head or removablyattached using hooks and loops fasteners or any pressure sensitiveadhesive.

[0115] In one embodiment, represented in FIG. 42-43, the floor mopcomprises a mop head 414 having an top and a bottom surface, a left anda right side where a first and a second gliding member 460 and 465 arehingedly attached. In one embodiment, the first and second glidingmember each comprise at least one glider 1460 or 1465 which are hingedlyattached to respectively the left and right side of the mop head 414.Each gliding member 460 and 465 can be hingedly moved, i.e. flipped,from a first to a second position. When a gliding member 460 or 465 isin the first position, as represented in FIG. 42, the at least oneglider 1460 or 1465 is located adjacent the bottom surface of the mophead 414. As a result, the cleaning implement can be used as previouslydescribed with a cleaning sheet having protrusions to clean softsurfaces. When a gliding member 460 or 465 is in the second position, asrepresented in FIG. 43, the at least one glider is flipped away from thebottom surface of the mop head 414 which, in turn, allows the cleaningimplement to be used with a cleaning sheet or a cleaning pad in order toclean hard surfaces.

[0116] In one embodiment, represented in FIG. 44-46, the floor mopcomprises a mop head 514 having an top and a bottom surface, a left anda right side where a first and a second gliding member 560 and 565 areslideably attached. In one embodiment, the first and second glidingmembers are slideably attached to respectively the left and right sideof the mop head 514. In this embodiment, each gliding member cancomprise at least one glider 1560 having a bottom surface and at leastone but preferably two projections 2560 and 3560 attached to oppositesides of the body portion 1560. These projections engage and areslideably movable within corresponding grooves or guide members 2514located within at least one but preferably a pair of “ears” members 3514on each of the left and right side of the mop head 514. These grooves orguide members can be made such that when a user pulls a gliding member560 or 565 in a direction depicted by an arrow in FIG. 44, this glidingmember comes to a first position. When a gliding member 560 or 565 is inthis first position, as represented in FIG. 44 and 46, the at least oneglider 1560 is extending from the bottom surface of the mop head 514. Asa result, the cleaning implement can be used as previously describedwith a cleaning sheet having protrusions to clean soft surfaces. Aspreviously discussed, a user can attach a cleaning sheet havingprotrusions to the mop head such that at least a portion of the cleaningsheet is located between the gliding members 560 and 565. One skilled inthe art will then understand that when a user pushes a gliding member560 or 565 in the direction depicted by an arrow in FIG. 45, thisgliding member comes to a second position. When a gliding member 560 or565 is in this second position, as represented in FIG. 45, the bottomsurface of the at least one glider is substantially in the same planethan the bottom surface of the mop head 514 which allows the cleaningimplement to be used with a cleaning sheet or a cleaning pad in order toclean hard surfaces. In another embodiment, the at least one butpreferably two projections 2560 and 3560 can be attached to the at leastone but preferably two “ear” members 3514 on each of the left and rightside of the mop head 514. These projections 2560 and 3560 can engagecorresponding grooves or guide members 2514 located on the glidingmembers 560, 565. As previously discussed, a user can simply pull orpush the gliding member 560 and 565 depending on the kind of cleaningsheet she wishes to use and the kind of surface she wishes to clean.Optionally but preferably, at least a portion of grooves or guidemembers 2514 can be slightly narrower than the projections 2560 and 3560such that a minimum force needs to be overcome in order to slideablymove the gliding member from the first to the second position and viceversa.

[0117] In another embodiment schematically represented in FIG. 48-51,the mop head 514 can comprise a slideable rod member 570 having a top,bottom, front and back surface and a first and second end and which canbe located within the mop head 514. This slideable rod member 570 can besubstantially longitudinal.

[0118] In one embodiment, the slideable rod member 570 comprises atleast two grooves or guide members 1570. Each groove or guide member canbe respectively located adjacent the first and second end of theslideable rod member 570. Preferably, each groove or guide member 1570can be located on the front and/or back surface of the slideable rodmember 570. The slideable rod member 570 can be slideably moved alongthe longitudinal axis of the mop head 514 via an arm member 2570 whichcan be attached to the top surface of the slideable rod member 570 andwhich extends through a slit or cut out preferably located on the topsurface of the mop head 514. The mop head 514 comprises at least one butpreferably two gliding members 560, 565 which can extend throughcorresponding cut outs made on the bottom surface of the mop head asrepresented in FIG. 48. In one embodiment, each gliding member has asubstantially rectangular shape having top, bottom, right, left, frontand bottom surfaces. Each gliding member also comprises at least one,but preferably two pin members 5560, 5565 for engaging the groove orguide member 1570 of the slideable rod member 570 as represented inFIGS. 50-51. The pin members can be attached to any of the sides of thegliding members 560, 565 but it can be preferred that the pin members beattached to the front and/or back side of the gliding members. Inanother embodiment, the gliding members have a substantially U shape asdepicted in FIG. 51. In this embodiment, each gliding member comprises abottom portion and a front and back portion defining an empty space inbetween. The pin member(s) can be attached to the gliding member(s) suchthat they extend towards this empty space. In this embodiment, theslideable rod member 570 can be located within this empty space suchthat the pin member(s) 5560 engages a corresponding groove 1570 of theslideable rod member 570. Each groove or guide member 1570 is preferablyoriented diagonally relative to the front and/or back surface of theslideable rod member 570 such that a longitudinal motion of theslideable rod member 570 results in an upward or downward motion of thegliding members 560, 565. It might be preferred that the “slope” of thegroove located adjacent the first end of the slideable rod member, besubstantially equal to the slope of the groove located adjacent thesecond end of the slideable rod member. As previously discussed, oneskilled in the art will understand that a motion of the slideable rodmember 570 along the longitudinal axis of the mop head 514 will resultin a motion of the gliding member 560 and 565 along the elevational axisof the mop head, i.e. upwards or downwards, as shown in FIGS. 48 and 49.One skill in the art will also understand that the pin members 5560 canbe attached to the slideable rod member 570 and can engage a groove 1570located on the gliding member 560 and still provide the same benefits.Optionally but preferably, the mop head can comprise a retaining member4514 located within the mop head for preventing an upward or downwardmotion of the slideable rod member 570. As previously described, thegliding members 560 and 565 can be adjusted from a first position to asecond position and vice versa. A user can simply push or pull the armmember 2570 in order to extend or retract the gliding members 560 and565 depending on the kind of cleaning sheet she wishes to use.Optionally, the slideable rod member can comprise a locking mechanismcomprising a spring-loaded mechanism 5570 which can be attached to theslideable rod member 570. This spring loaded mechanism is capable ofreleasably engaging one of a plurality of recesses located on the innersurface of the mop head along an axis which is substantially parallel tothe slideable rod member 570. In one embodiment, the height of glidingmembers 560, 565 can be adjusted to as many “levels” as the number ofrecesses which are engageable by the spring-loaded mechanism 5570. Inorder to increase or decrease the height of the gliding members 560 and565, a user can push or pull the arm member 2570 but also needs toovercome the axial force of the spring-loaded mechanism.

[0119] In another embodiment, the mop head 514 comprises at least onebut preferably two, spring-loaded gliding members 560, 565. In oneembodiment, each gliding member 560, 565, can be in contact with atleast one but preferably two spring members, 3560 which tend to pull orpush each gliding member inwardly. The slideable rod member 570 cancomprise at least one, but preferably two, notches or cut out 6570having a “biased” portion. In a preferred embodiment, the slope of the“biased” portion of the first notch is substantially equal to the slopeof the “biased” portion of the second notch. When the slideable rodmember 570 is moved longitudinally within the mop head 514, the “biased”portions of each notch come into contact with an edge of top surface ofthe gliding members 560,565 and forces the gliding members to extendthrough the bottom surface of the mop head. When the slideable rodmember 570 is moved to the opposite direction, the spring members 3560pull or push each gliding member back within the mop head 514. Aspreviously discussed, a longitudinal motion of the slideable rod member570 will result in an elevational motion of the gliding members 560, 565either in an upward or downward direction.

[0120] In another embodiment of the invention, represented in FIG. 52through 56, the floor mop comprises a mop head 614 having a top and abottom surface, a left and a right side, and a frame member 660 whichcan be removably attached to the mop head 614. The frame member 660comprises at least one but preferably two longitudinal elements 1660 and2660 which can be substantially parallel to each other. In a preferredembodiment, at least one but preferably both longitudinal elements 1660and 2660 can be removably attached to the mop head 614. The frame member660 also comprises at least one, preferably between 1 and 25, morepreferably between 2 and 10, most preferably between 3 and 6 gliders3660 attached the longitudinal element 1660 and/or 2660. In thisembodiment, a user can use the cleaning implement having a mop head 614with a dry cleaning sheet or an absorbent cleaning pad to clean a hardsurface. The user can also attach a cleaning sheet comprisingprotrusions to the mop head and then attach the frame member 660 to themop head such the portion of the sheet comprising the protrusions islocated between the mop head 614 and the frame member 660. In thisconfiguration, represented in FIG. 53 and 55, at least some of thegliders 3660 allow the cleaning implement to smoothly glide across thesurface being cleaned. One skilled in the art will understand that theframe member 660 might be sufficient to retain the cleaning sheet havingprotrusions 1 on the mop head. As a result, the grippers 619 becomeoptional but might still be preferred. Once a user has finished cleaninga soft surface, she can simply remove the frame member 660 from the mophead 614 and then remove the cleaning sheet comprising protrusions fromthe mop head. In one embodiment at least some of the gliders 3660 aresubstantially perpendicular to the longitudinal element 1660 and/or2660. In another embodiment, at least some of the gliders are attachedto the longitudinal element 1660 and/or 2660 such that the angle betweensome of the gliders 3660 and the longitudinal element 1660 and/or 2660is comprised between about 0 degrees and about 90 degrees, preferablybetween about 45 degrees and about 90 degrees and most preferablybetween about 70 and about 85 degrees. The glider(s) can have a width3661 comprised between about 0.5 mm and 40 mm, preferably between about1 mm and 30 mm, more preferably between about 2 mm and about 20 mm andeven most preferably between about 5 mm to about 15 mm. The glider(s)can have any suitable geometric shape. Non-limiting examples ofgeometric shapes include rectangular, triangular, trapezoid, hyperbolic,parabolic, sinusoidal and any combinations thereof. In anotherembodiment, it might be preferred that the width of each glider varyalong the length of the glider. In yet another embodiment, it might bepreferred that the height of each glider vary along the length of theglider. In another embodiment, it might also be preferred that the widthof each glider vary along the height of the glider. In one embodiment,the width of the portion of the glider(s) which is in contact with thesoft surface can be greater than the width of the portion of the gliderwhich is in contact with the cleaning sheet. Without intending to bebound by any theory, it is believed that such tapered glider(s) improvethe cleaning efficiency of a cleaning sheet having protrusions byfitting in between the protrusions of the sheet. Without intending to bebound by any theory, it is believed that a good “glide” of the mop headwith a cleaning sheet having protrusions on a soft surface, is relatedto both the “height” of the glider(s) as well as the gliding ratiobetween the total surface area of the glider(s) to the total surface ofthe bottom surface of the mop head. For example, a cleaning sheet withprotrusions on a mop head 614 which is used without a frame member 660,would have a gliding ratio of zero. On the other hand, a cleaning sheetwith protrusions attached to a mop head 614 that is used with a framemember 660 covering entirely the cleaning sheet (i.e. perfect glide ofthe mop head on the soft surface) would have a gliding ratio of 1. Inone embodiment, the width of the glider(s) is such that the glidingratio is comprised between about 0.01 and about 0.35, preferably betweenabout 0.05 and about 0.25, most preferably between about 0.1 and about0.15. In another embodiment of the invention, at least some of thegliders 3660 can have a different width. When the frame member 660comprises 2 gliders 3660, each glider 3660 can be attached to each endsof the longitudinal element 1660 and/or 2660. When the frame member 660comprises at least three gliders 3660, it might be preferred that eachglider 3660 be attached to the longitudinal member 1660 and/or 2660 suchthat the distance between two consecutive gliders is identical to thedistance between two other consecutive gliders 3660. In anotherembodiment, the distance between a series of consecutive gliders 3660can be increasing or decreasing and still provide the same benefits. Inone embodiment of the invention, a mop head 614 can have a “crown”bottom surface 1614. It might be desirable to provide a curved profilehaving a substantially continuous radius of curvature, as shown in FIG.53-54, such that a more pure circular arc is achieved. The radius ofcurvature can be determined for a substantially curved bottom surface bymeasuring the radius of a circle passing through the terminuses 5614 and6614 of the bottom surface of the mop head and the tangency point of thecontact surface of the bottom surface. The radius of curvature ispreferably at least about 200 mm, and, more preferably, is at leastabout 1000 mm. Most preferably, the radius of curvature is between about200 mm and about 1200 mm. This “crown” bottom surface can have a fixedradius of curvature or a variable radius of curvature. In oneembodiment, it can be preferred that the glider(s) 3660 of the framemember 660 have the same concavity and radius of curvature than the“crown” bottom surface 1614 of the mop head 614. In another embodiment,it might be preferred that the radius of curvature of the glider(s)3660, be different than the angle of curvature of the “crown” bottomsurface 1614 of the mop head 614. In one embodiment, the radius ofcurvature of the glider(s) 3660 is smaller than the radius of curvatureof the “crown” bottom surface 1614 of the mop head 614. Withoutintending to be bound by any theory, it is believed that when the bottomsurface of a mop head 614 is substantially flat, it might be beneficialto use this mop head with a frame member 660 comprising convexglider(s). In this embodiment, the convex glider(s) not only enhance theglide of the mop head on a soft surface, but in addition provide a“rocking” motion to the mop head which increases the “use efficiency” ofa cleaning sheet with protrusions. As previously discussed, the framemember can be removably attached to the mop head 614. In one embodiment,the frame member 660 is clipable to the mop head 614. This can be simplydone by having at least one clip or rib on at least one of thelongitudinal members 1660 and/or 2660. In another embodiment, the framemember 660 can be hingedly attached to the leading or trailing edge onthe mop head 614 and can be clipable respectively to the trailing orleading edge. In another embodiment, a strip of hooks and loopsfasteners such as Velcro® material can be attached to the longitudinalmember 1660 and/or 2660 in order to allow a user to attach the framemember 660 to the mop head 614. In one embodiment of the invention, theframe member 660 comprises at least one but preferably two strip ofelastic material attached to both the longitudinal member 1660 and 2660.In another embodiment of the invention represented in FIG. 52, The framemember 660 can comprise at least one, preferably two, more preferablyfour strips of a substantially flexible material 1662, 1664, 2662 and2664 attached to the longitudinal member 1660 and/or 2660. These stripsof flexible material 1662, 1664, 2662 and 2664 comprise at least onerecess or projection 1666 and 2666 for being engaged or engaging acorresponding projection or recess 2614 on the top surface of the mophead 614. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the strips offlexible material 1662, 1664, 2662 and 2664 comprise a plurality ofrecesses 1666 and 2666 and the mop head 614 comprises four projections2614 which are preferably symmetrically located on the top surface ofthe mop head 614. One skilled in the art will understand that theprojections 2614 can be in a different location, for example on thesides of the mop head 614, and still provide the same benefits. Amongother benefits, this embodiment allows the user to clean a hard or softsurface when the frame member 660 is removed from the mop head 614 witha dry cleaning sheet or absorbent cleaning pad. This embodiment alsoallows the user to clean a soft surface with a cleaning sheet comprisingprotrusions and a frame member 660 but also set the height of theglider(s) 3660 relative to the bottom surface of the mop head 614depending on the kind of cleaning sheet which is used and/or softsurface to be cleaned. One skilled in the art will understand thatdepending on which recess 1666, 2666 is engaged by the projection(s)2614, the height of the glider(s) 3660 will adjusted. In an evenpreferred embodiment, the bottom surface of the mop head 614 comprisesat least one but preferably a plurality of grooves 3614 as representedin FIG. 55. Each groove 3614 can be “facing” at least one correspondingglider 3660. The depth and the width of the grooves 3614 are such that agroove 3614 can enclose at least partially, but preferably entirely, atleast one corresponding glider 3660. When the glider(s) 3660 are atleast partially but preferably entirely located within a groove 3614, auser can use the cleaning implement with a dry cleaning sheet orabsorbent pad without having to remove the frame member 660 entirely asrepresented in FIG. 54. Among other benefits, this embodiment allows auser to keep the frame member 660 attached to the mop head even when theglider(s) 3660 are not required. As a result, the frame member 660 isless likely to be lost or misplaced by a user. One skilled in the artwill appreciate that other types of adjustable attachment mechanism foradjusting the height of the gliders 3660 can be used and provide thesame benefits. Non-limiting examples of adjustable attachment mechanismcan be hook and loop fasteners such as a strip of hook and loopsfasterner such as Velcro® material attached to the longitudinal members1660 and/or 2660, strips of material attached at one end to thelongitudinal members and having a hook member at the other end forengaging at least one notch or recess on the mop head 614 or strips ofmaterial comprising a pressure sensitive adhesive.

[0121] It is noted that other configurations of gliders are encompassedby the present invention so as to facilitate the ability of the cleaningimplement to glider across the surface being cleaned.

[0122] C. Other Optional Features

[0123] The present cleaning implements can also incorporate otheroptional, but preferred features, including, but not limited to: (a) amop head having a curved bottom surface; and/or (b) a conformable moppad affixed to the bottom surface of the mop head.

[0124] An optional, but preferred, feature of the cleaning implementsherein includes a mop head having a curved bottom surface. A curvedbottom surface of the mop head helps to facilitate the cleaning sheet toremove debris from the surface being cleaned. FIG. 3 shows a slightlycurved bottom surface of the mop head 14.

[0125] Preferred curved mop heads are described in detail in co-pendingU.S. application Ser. No. 09/821,953 filed Mar. 30, 2001 by Kacher etal.

[0126] The bottom surface of the mop head of the present cleaningimplement also preferably comprises a mop pad affixed thereto. The moppad is preferably made of a relatively soft, conformable material. Thiswill further facilitate the ability of the cleaning sheet to removedebris from the surface being cleaned. Suitable materials for making themop pad include, for example, PVC, polyurethane, polyethylene, EVA, andthe like.

[0127]FIGS. 4 and 5 show a mop pad 60 affixed to the bottom surface ofthe mop head 43 of the cleaning implement 41. If the cleaning implementcomprises a pair of gliders 57, as in FIGS. 4 and 5, the mop pad 60 ispreferably positioned in between the pair of gliders 57.

[0128] The mop head of the present cleaning implement can optionallyfurther comprise a bumper. A bumper generally surrounds the outsideedges of the mop head. The bumper is typically made of a relatively softmaterial which helps to prevent damage to furniture and other potentialitems in the path of the cleaning implement when a surface is beingcleaned. A suitable material for making a bumper is santaprene.

[0129]FIGS. 4 and 5 show a mop head 43 comprising a bumper 61 whichsurrounds the outside edges of the mop head 43.

[0130] The present cleaning implements can further comprise attachmentsfor attaching a removable cleaning sheet to the cleaning implement.“Grippers” are preferred way to attach the present cleaning sheets to acleaning implement, as shown in FIG. 8. Preferred grippers are describedin detail in co-pending U.S. application Ser. No. 09/374,714 filed Aug.13, 1999 by Kingry et al. Another way to attach the present cleaningsheets to a cleaning implement is via a hook-and-loop fastener system.If a hook-and-loop fastener system is used, the substrate of thecleaning sheet will have either hooks or loop material affixed to thesurface of the substrate in contact with the mop head of the cleaningimplement, which will have complementary loop or hook material affixedthereto to engage the hook or loop material of the cleaning sheet.

[0131] The cleaning implement 11 of FIG. 1 has four grippers 19 whichare located near each of the four comers of the mop head 14. Thegrippers 19 are capable of engaging the comers of a removable cleaningsheet attached to the cleaning implement 11.

[0132] III. Methods of Use

[0133] The present invention further relates to a method of using thecleaning implements herein. The present methods for removing debris froma surface generally comprise the step of contacting the surface with acleaning implement according to the present invention. A removablecleaning sheet is preferably attached to the cleaning implement.

[0134] The present cleaning implements can be used to clean a variety ofsurfaces. The surface cleaned with the present cleaning implements ispreferably a fibrous surface, comprising filaments, threads, or mixturesthereof. The filaments or threads can be made of wool, silk, cotton,nylon, polypropylene, polyester, or mixtures thereof. A preferredsurface herein is carpet, including woven, cut-and-loop pile, plush,saxony, loop, berber, oriental, braided, sculptured, textured, shag, andcombinations thereof.

[0135] When the surface being cleaned is carpet, the present methods cancomprise the steps of vacuuming the carpet and then contacting thecarpet with a cleaning implement of the present invention. The presentcleaning implements are particularly effective in removing debris thatis typically difficult to remove with conventional vacuum cleaners, suchas pet hair.

[0136] The present methods can also encompass removing allergens from asurface, or reducing allergens in the air, comprising the step ofcontacting the surface with a cleaning implement of the presentinvention.

[0137] While particular embodiments of the subject invention have beendescribed, it will be obvious to those skilled in the art that variouschanges and modifications of the subject invention can be made withoutdeparting from the spirit and scope of the invention. In addition, whilethe present invention has been described in connection with certainspecific embodiments thereof, it is to be understood that this is by wayof limitation and the scope of the invention is defined by the appendedclaims which should be construed as broadly as the prior art willpermit.

What is claimed is:
 1. A cleaning implement for removing debris from asurface, said cleaning implement comprising: (a) a handle; (b) a mophead having a left and right side and a top and a bottom surface; and(c) at least one gliding member attached to said mop head, wherein saidgliding member has a top and a bottom surface.
 2. The cleaning implementof claim 1 wherein said at least one gliding member is removablyattached to said mop head.
 3. The cleaning implement of claim 1 whereinsaid at least one gliding members comprises a glider and wherein saidlat least one glider is attached to said mop head such that the heightof said glider is comprised between about −10 mm about 15 mm relative tothe bottom surface of said mop head
 4. The cleaning implement of claim 2wherein said mop head comprises a first and a second glider, whereinsaid first and second gliders are removably clipped to respectively saidleft and right side of said mop head.
 5. The cleaning implement of claim1 wherein said mop head comprises a first and a second gliding membercomprising a glider, wherein said first and second gliding members arerotationally attached to said mop head about a rotational axis.
 6. Thecleaning implement of claim 5 wherein said first and second glidingmembers can rotate from a first position to a second position andwherein said gliders are substantially adjacent said bottom surface ofsaid mop head when said gliding members are in said first position andwherein said gliders are substantially adjacent said top surface of saidmop head when said gliding members are in said second position.
 7. Thecleaning implement of claim 5 wherein said first gliding member isattached to said second gliding member such that rotation of any of saidfirst or second gliding member results in the rotation of said second orfirst gliding member.
 8. The cleaning implement of claim 7 wherein saidfirst and second gliding members are attached with a pole member,wherein said pole member is located substantially adjacent saidrotational axis.
 9. The cleaning implement of claim 1 wherein said mophead comprises a first and a second gliding member, wherein said firstand second gliding members are hingedly attached to said mop.
 10. Thecleaning implement of claim 1 wherein said mop head comprises a firstand a second gliding member, wherein said first and second glidingmembers are slideably attached to said mop head
 11. The cleaningimplement of claim 1 wherein said at least one gliding member comprisesa frame member removably attached to said mop head and at least oneglider attached to said frame member.
 12. The cleaning implement ofclaim 11 wherein said gliding member comprises a first and a secondframe member and wherein said at least one glider is attached to saidfirst and said second frame member.
 13. The cleaning implement of claim12 wherein said bottom surface of said mop head comprises at least onegroove member for receiving at least one corresponding glider of saidgliding member.
 14. The cleaning implement of claim 1 further comprisinga cleaning sheet attached to said mop head.
 15. The cleaning implementof claim 14 wherein said cleaning sheet comprises a substrate having aplurality of protrusions affixed to said substate.
 16. The cleaningimplement of claim 15 wherein said mop head comprises a first and asecond gliding member and wherein said cleaning sheet is attached tosaid mop head such that at least a portion of said cleaning sheet havingprotrusions is located between said first and said second glidingmembers.
 17. The cleaning implement of claim 16 wherein the penetrationdepth of said protrusions into a soft surface is comprised between about0 and about 4 mm.
 18. The cleaning implement of claim 17 wherein saidpenetration depth is comprised between 0.1 and about 2 mm.
 19. Acleaning implement for removing debris from a surface, said cleaningimplement comprising: (a) a handle; (b) a mop head having a left andright side and a top and a bottom surface; and (d) at least one gliderattached to said bottom surface of said mop head.
 20. The cleaningimplement of claim 19 further comprising a cleaning sheet comprising asubstrate having protrusions affixed to said substrate.